“Imported European chocolates are becoming part of the culture when it comes to festive seasons. We set chocolates on shelves at day time and by night they are all gone. We have to stock extra chocolates. The Kingdom has to import large amount of chocolates to meet the demand,” says Hatem Al-Lulu, store manager of Dina for Sweets and Luxury Dates. “Chocolates are a symbol of showing affection and care, and Eid is just such an event when people forget their grudges and spread love.”
He elaborated that dates, being the national fruit, are in demand all year long, but during Ramadan date sales soar. Dates from Makkah and Madinah are preferred for their link with the holy cities while dates from Qassim and other provinces also sell considerably.
He explained that like chocolates, dates have also gone through variations.
Dates are now stuffed with toffees and dry fruits, almond, pistachio and walnuts, and even dipped in chocolate. The prices of dates range from SR70 to SR100 per kilo. Chocolates are found in unimaginable variety — dark, light, white, bitter, semi-sweet, sweet, with biscuit wafer, caramel, fruit, crunch, in powder or syrup form. Luxury chocolate range starts from SR100 to SR150 per kilo depending on quality and flavor.
Arab News also visited other chocolate stores to know the Eid trend.
“Beautiful arrangement of chocolates has become a brisk business. People are now more interested in chocolates as desserts than cakes and traditional sweets. Though traditional sweets and cakes trend has not disappeared, but chocolates have taken more ground in the market. Chocolates are the best option for gifts now,” said Norman G. Smayno of Baroon Sweets and Chocolate Store.
He explained that post Ramadan period is a very busy week for them as they get many catering orders which is very low throughout the holy month. “People look for the most beautiful arrangements without feeling the pinch of price,” he added.
The arrangement price range starts from SR200 to as high as SR2,000 or even more.
